drill and tap head for temp sender? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

bark · 10-14-2011, 02:12 PM

hello, who has drilled and tapped a head to install a stock temp sensor?
did some searching and never really found a how to, is there enouth room for the 3/8 pipe thread style, will I have manifold clearance? don't wanna dive in and cause myself a headache...lol

or should I just buy the adapter found online

clinebarger · 10-14-2011, 02:23 PM

I drilled & tapped the head on my suburban. You will need a 37/64" drill bit, 9/16" also works.

bark · 10-15-2011, 10:43 AM

cool, and I assume there is enough clearance....

thanks

C15_Sierra · 10-15-2011, 12:58 PM

Interested in doing this on my truck...do you have to remove the head to do this?

clinebarger · 10-16-2011, 01:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bark

cool, and I assume there is enough clearance....

thanks

Yes

Quote:

Originally Posted by C15_Sierra

Interested in doing this on my truck...do you have to remove the head to do this?

No, But the engine needs to be out.

6.0 1955 · 10-16-2011, 09:30 PM

For $18 street and performance makes adapters for this. To me I'll spend that small amount to not risk messing up a head. Just contact them and tell them the thread size and sender length for mechanical gauge. They also make an adapter to replace the oil sender with a mechanical gauge system.
Posted via Mobile Device

STOCKISH · 10-17-2011, 09:38 PM

The adapters are garbage. I drilled and tapped mine on my 6.0 Do it once and do it right. Why deal with leaky cruddy adapters?

*72lb4x4* · 10-17-2011, 09:56 PM

A bit of searching the internet will get the P/N for a sender with the right thread, or you can get a thermostat housing from a later truck with the right size hole.

Just a few alternatives...

C15_Sierra · 10-17-2011, 10:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1972SuperCheyenne

The adapters are garbage. I drilled and tapped mine on my 6.0 Do it once and do it right. Why deal with leaky cruddy adapters?

During my research I found a few complaints about those senders which is why I'd been hesitant...I figured why not drill and tap, but am nervous to be drilling w/ a hand drill..

Quote:

Originally Posted by 72lb4x4

A bit of searching the internet will get the P/N for a sender with the right thread, or you can get a thermostat housing from a later truck with the right size hole.

Just a few alternatives...

I can do that, or try to have one of the guys in the mach shop do it at work, but like I said above, I'd seen some negative reviews of sender adapters

If there are senders that have the right threads and have the right ohm range for the '91 Burb gauges I'm running, I'm all ears...did some searching and found very little info available for stock senders

**Clyde65** · 10-18-2011, 09:32 AM

I used the adapter from Autometer, 12/1.5 by 1\8ths I think.

here it is.

Amazon.com: Auto Meter 2277 1/8" NPT to M12...

Jonce · 10-20-2011, 05:17 PM

When I built my 5.3L S-10, I went to the the auto parts store and bought a new sensor (brass I believe). Then I sanded down the threads enough to run the correct die over it. Once completed, I threaded into the passenger side head and hooked up my sensor wire. Worked for 2 yrs (25k miles) and then sold the truck.

mcbassin · 10-21-2011, 09:52 PM

Anyone take pictures of this modification?

*72lb4x4* · 10-21-2011, 11:00 PM

Sorry, I didn't notice this was in the LS area. I was thinking about the different senders in SBC heads...

CamaroChris · 10-26-2011, 06:39 AM

I machined a bunch of SB temp sensors down into a 12mm/1.5 thread so that means NO adapter and NO drilling and tapping the block! Talk about doing it right. If you want one PM me for details. !IF! thats OK with the board? I just need to know which sensor you want because there are like 5 diffrent connector types.

mcbassin · 10-26-2011, 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CamaroChris

I machined a bunch of SB temp sensors down into a 12mm/1.5 thread so that means NO adapter and NO drilling and tapping the block! Talk about doing it right. If you want one PM me for details. !IF! thats OK with the board? I just need to know which sensor you want because there are like 5 diffrent connector types.

That's a really great idea. I am the manager at a machine shop and make parts for my truck all the time. I should be able to modify one in a pinch. Thanks for the tip. I have also made adapters for these out of brass.

Robznob11 · 10-26-2011, 09:03 AM

Some drill and tap water pump i just run a mechanical gauge sender on top radiator hose
Posted via Mobile Device

bark · 10-26-2011, 09:15 AM

I never even thought about machining one down, never even considered how much extra meat was on it..... thanks I am going to take a look at it rite away

farmtrucks · 11-03-2011, 10:39 AM

will this work in the back of passenger head and show true temp on the original gauge cluster
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/VDO-323092/

68GMCCustom · 11-03-2011, 04:28 PM

the adapter made the temp sensor stick way out and look like crap...... so I tapped my passenger side head.

CamaroChris · 11-14-2011, 06:53 PM

**Thealien** · 11-15-2011, 02:34 PM

CamaroChris,

What year truck is that temp sensor for? I have a 72 and the sensors are 1/2 NPT and I couldn't find any sensors that I could turn down enough to work. Later vehicles use a 3/8 NPT with a different resistance and wil not work with my factory guages.

CamaroChris · 11-16-2011, 04:42 AM

The picture I posted is a 91 3/4 ton temp switch. I have also turned down an 86' I'm going junk yard hopping this weekend to grab a bunch of other year temp senders to play with.
Posted via Mobile Device

**Thealien** · 11-16-2011, 10:16 AM

if you find any 72s that you can turn down ill take one or two.

Chevy4Life · 11-17-2011, 12:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CamaroChris

The picture I posted is a 91 3/4 ton temp switch. I have also turned down an 86' I'm going junk yard hopping this weekend to grab a bunch of other year temp senders to play with.
Posted via Mobile Device

I'd be willing do donate my 67 temp 1/2" npt sender for the test. the sensor end is about 13mm so, some meat would probably need to be taken off all the way down. I have no idea how much "extra" material there is or how this would effect it's operation.

I could take some basic ohm readings before and after also.

I can't believe the gauge companies haven't jumped on this. I guess the $ is in selling us gauges not senders.

Chevy4Life · 11-17-2011, 01:47 PM

I ran across this link that uses the large block plug tapped for the 1/2" NPT sender. It's not as good as having it in the head, but it's only a few inches away. http://ls1tech.com/forums/conversion...r-adapter.html

1-Drill and tap the head
2-Drill and tap the water pump
3-Add a short pipe with a fitting in the upper radiator hose
4-Tapping the block heater/drain plug
5-?????????

6- Find or get someone to make a 12mm 72-88 Ohm Resistance At 220 Deg F sensor(If it's even possible) I've cut open a few senders and the large senders use a large wound spring and the smaller ones use a thin flat spring.

10-14-2011, 02:12 PM	#1
bark Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Manitoba Posts: 223	drill and tap head for temp sender? hello, who has drilled and tapped a head to install a stock temp sensor? did some searching and never really found a how to, is there enouth room for the 3/8 pipe thread style, will I have manifold clearance? don't wanna dive in and cause myself a headache...lol or should I just buy the adapter found online

10-14-2011, 02:23 PM	#2
clinebarger Senior Member Join Date: May 2009 Location: Fort Worth, TX Posts: 6,370	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? I drilled & tapped the head on my suburban. You will need a 37/64" drill bit, 9/16" also works.

10-15-2011, 10:43 AM	#3
bark Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Manitoba Posts: 223	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? cool, and I assume there is enough clearance.... thanks

10-15-2011, 12:58 PM	#4
C15_Sierra Registered User Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Hartford CT Posts: 223	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? Interested in doing this on my truck...do you have to remove the head to do this? __________________ -Steve 1980 GMC C15 Sierra LWB Dark Carmine Red/Carmine Int Was: 250/3spd (1980-88), then a 305/TH350 (1988-2011) Now: 5.3/4L60E, 2.73 12-bolt open rear

10-16-2011, 09:30 PM	#6
6.0 1955 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Ashland, KY Posts: 91	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? For $18 street and performance makes adapters for this. To me I'll spend that small amount to not risk messing up a head. Just contact them and tell them the thread size and sender length for mechanical gauge. They also make an adapter to replace the oil sender with a mechanical gauge system. Posted via Mobile Device

10-17-2011, 09:38 PM	#7
STOCKISH Formerly- 1972SuperCheyenne Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Wake Forest NC Posts: 5,782	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? The adapters are garbage. I drilled and tapped mine on my 6.0 Do it once and do it right. Why deal with leaky cruddy adapters? __________________ --Josh My Build Thread:http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=799218 A good crossthread is better than Loctite any day. Life is not about what you have, but who you have to share it with.

10-17-2011, 09:56 PM	#8
72lb4x4 Account Suspended Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: DFW Posts: 1,427	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? A bit of searching the internet will get the P/N for a sender with the right thread, or you can get a thermostat housing from a later truck with the right size hole. Just a few alternatives...

10-18-2011, 09:32 AM	#10
Clyde65 1965 Chevy C10, 2005 4.8L/4l60 Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: DFW Texas Posts: 8,546	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? I used the adapter from Autometer, 12/1.5 by 1\8ths I think. here it is. Amazon.com: Auto Meter 2277 1/8" NPT to M12... __________________ Clyde65 Rebuild of Clyde http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...84#post8338184 69 Aristocrat Lo Liner build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...84#post7561684 *support our troops!*

10-20-2011, 05:17 PM	#11
Jonce Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Twin Cities, MN Posts: 115	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? When I built my 5.3L S-10, I went to the the auto parts store and bought a new sensor (brass I believe). Then I sanded down the threads enough to run the correct die over it. Once completed, I threaded into the passenger side head and hooked up my sensor wire. Worked for 2 yrs (25k miles) and then sold the truck. __________________ __________________________________ 1971 GMC Stepside 350HO Deluxe 330hp, TH350 w/Gear Vendors, 3.73 Eaton posi, Fitech EFI, Boyd's Welding Tank, Ridler wheels, ECE 4/6" drop, front/rear sway bar ________________________________

10-21-2011, 09:52 PM	#12
mcbassin Still Learning Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Central Oklahoma Posts: 10,108	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? Anyone take pictures of this modification? __________________ Mike "69 Short Wide" My Project 86 Silverado Landen's Project Instagram: @mcbassin My Website C/10 Club Oklahoma Facebook Group

10-21-2011, 11:00 PM	#13
72lb4x4 Account Suspended Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: DFW Posts: 1,427	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? Sorry, I didn't notice this was in the LS area. I was thinking about the different senders in SBC heads...

10-26-2011, 06:39 AM	#14
CamaroChris Registered User Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Midvale, Utah Posts: 220	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? I machined a bunch of SB temp sensors down into a 12mm/1.5 thread so that means NO adapter and NO drilling and tapping the block! Talk about doing it right. If you want one PM me for details. !IF! thats OK with the board? I just need to know which sensor you want because there are like 5 diffrent connector types. __________________ I LIKE TRUCKS 1986 GMC Suburban Build Build link 1982 Chevy SWB 2wd Scottsdale, Build Link Sold 1987 Jimmy Build, Project Cheap A$$ Build Link

10-26-2011, 09:03 AM	#16
Robznob11 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: brownfield texas (west texas) Posts: 1,936	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? Some drill and tap water pump i just run a mechanical gauge sender on top radiator hose Posted via Mobile Device __________________ The Ghost 67 short wide full custom. 550 hp LSX, 4l80E, narrowed 9". Body dropped w/air ride! ........................ ___ .........________//__{\_____ ,,,,,,,/__(⊙)___//___/__(O)_/ @disciple2.rc 💪instagram💪 LED TAILS

10-26-2011, 09:15 AM	#17
bark Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Manitoba Posts: 223	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? I never even thought about machining one down, never even considered how much extra meat was on it..... thanks I am going to take a look at it rite away

11-03-2011, 10:39 AM	#18
farmtrucks Registered User Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Sneedville, TN Posts: 831	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? will this work in the back of passenger head and show true temp on the original gauge cluster http://www.summitracing.com/parts/VDO-323092/ __________________ High School Project I ---http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=639174 High School Project II ---http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...27#post7290427 High School Project III ---http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=715832 High School Project IV (Tyler) ---http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=780186



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11-03-2011, 04:28 PM	#19
68GMCCustom Truck and auto performance nut Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: McKinney,Texas Posts: 3,848	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? the adapter made the temp sensor stick way out and look like crap...... so I tapped my passenger side head. __________________ Kurt - '68 GMC short step - NIB '09 LY6 6.0L crate motor w/mods, NIB '12 crate 4L85e w/billet 3k stall Circle D, 3.73 posi 12 bolt, DynaTech f-swap headers, 3/4 drop, handling mods, etc. - my toy '72 Chevy LWB C-10 Highlander - 350/350 ps/pb/tilt/ac - not original but close '06 Chevy TrailBlazerSS - LS2/4L70e - little black hot rod SUV - my DD '18 Kia Sorento - wife's econo-driver '95 Chevy S10 - reg cab shortbed, LS, 4.3, auto... my '68's powertrain and chassis build -links broken A surprise phase - carb to efi -links broken

11-14-2011, 06:53 PM	#20
CamaroChris Registered User Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Midvale, Utah Posts: 220	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? __________________ I LIKE TRUCKS 1986 GMC Suburban Build Build link 1982 Chevy SWB 2wd Scottsdale, Build Link Sold 1987 Jimmy Build, Project Cheap A$$ Build Link

11-15-2011, 02:34 PM	#21
Thealien Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Pine Ridge Florida Posts: 4,135	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? CamaroChris, What year truck is that temp sensor for? I have a 72 and the sensors are 1/2 NPT and I couldn't find any sensors that I could turn down enough to work. Later vehicles use a 3/8 NPT with a different resistance and wil not work with my factory guages. __________________ Click on my Not really a build thread, yet NOT SO RUST FREE RUST FREE BLAZER LS ENGINE SWAP INFORMATION THREAD BOLT RESTORATIONS 4l60 to an NP205

11-16-2011, 04:42 AM	#22
CamaroChris Registered User Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Midvale, Utah Posts: 220	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? The picture I posted is a 91 3/4 ton temp switch. I have also turned down an 86' I'm going junk yard hopping this weekend to grab a bunch of other year temp senders to play with. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ I LIKE TRUCKS 1986 GMC Suburban Build Build link 1982 Chevy SWB 2wd Scottsdale, Build Link Sold 1987 Jimmy Build, Project Cheap A$$ Build Link

11-16-2011, 10:16 AM	#23
Thealien Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Pine Ridge Florida Posts: 4,135	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? if you find any 72s that you can turn down ill take one or two. __________________ Click on my Not really a build thread, yet NOT SO RUST FREE RUST FREE BLAZER LS ENGINE SWAP INFORMATION THREAD BOLT RESTORATIONS 4l60 to an NP205

11-17-2011, 01:47 PM	#25
Chevy4Life Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Las Vegas, NV Posts: 749	Re: drill and tap head for temp sender? I ran across this link that uses the large block plug tapped for the 1/2" NPT sender. It's not as good as having it in the head, but it's only a few inches away. http://ls1tech.com/forums/conversion...r-adapter.html 1-Drill and tap the head 2-Drill and tap the water pump 3-Add a short pipe with a fitting in the upper radiator hose 4-Tapping the block heater/drain plug 5-????????? 6- Find or get someone to make a 12mm 72-88 Ohm Resistance At 220 Deg F sensor(If it's even possible) I've cut open a few senders and the large senders use a large wound spring and the smaller ones use a thin flat spring. Attached Images Last edited by Chevy4Life; 11-30-2011 at 05:45 PM. Reason: Fixed incorrect info!

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